2018 Ford Fusion Oil Change – A Step-By-Step DIY Guide For Maximum
Performing a 2018 ford fusion oil change is a straightforward maintenance task that saves you money and ensures your engine remains in peak condition. By following the correct procedure and using engine-specific materials, you can extend the lifespan of your vehicle and maintain its fuel efficiency.
Most car owners agree that keeping up with routine maintenance is the best way to avoid expensive repair bills down the road. You might feel a bit intimidated by the idea of crawling under your car, but the process is actually quite manageable with the right guidance. In this guide, we will walk you through every step of a 2018 ford fusion oil change, ensuring you have the confidence to get the job done right.
We will cover everything from the specific tools you need to the different oil capacities for various Fusion engines. Whether you drive the 1.5L EcoBoost or the 2.5L naturally aspirated model, this walkthrough has you covered. By the end of this article, you will be able to perform this service safely and efficiently in your own driveway.
Taking control of your vehicle’s maintenance is a great way to build a deeper connection with your machine. We will provide professional-grade tips to help you avoid common messes and technical pitfalls. Let’s get your tools ready and dive into the details of keeping your Ford Fusion running smoothly.
Essential Tools and Materials for Your 2018 ford fusion oil change
Before you begin, you need to gather the correct supplies to avoid mid-project trips to the auto parts store. The 2018 Ford Fusion came with several engine options, so verify your specific engine type before purchasing your filter and oil. Check your owner’s manual or the VIN sticker inside the driver’s door jamb if you are unsure.
Standard tools include a high-quality floor jack and jack stands to safely elevate the vehicle. You will also need a 13mm or 15mm socket (depending on your specific drain plug), an oil filter wrench, and a drain pan. Using a funnel is highly recommended to prevent spills on your engine block during the refill process.
For the materials, most 2018 Fusions require 5W-20 or 5W-30 synthetic blend or full synthetic oil. You will also need a replacement oil filter, typically a Motorcraft FL-910S or FL-500S. Always have a few shop rags or paper towels nearby to clean up any drips immediately.
Recommended Oil Capacities by Engine
- 2.5L i-VCT Engine: Approximately 5.7 quarts of 5W-20.
- 1.5L EcoBoost Engine: Approximately 4.1 quarts of 5W-30.
- 2.0L EcoBoost Engine: Approximately 5.7 quarts of 5W-30.
- 2.7L EcoBoost V6 (Sport): Approximately 6.0 quarts of 5W-30.
Safety Gear and Workspace Prep
Always wear nitrile gloves to protect your skin from used engine oil, which contains harmful contaminants. Eye protection is also vital when working underneath the vehicle to prevent debris or oil from falling into your eyes. Ensure your workspace is level and the parking brake is firmly engaged before lifting the car.
How to Perform a 2018 ford fusion oil change Safely
The first step in any successful oil change is preparing the vehicle for the service. Start your engine and let it run for about five minutes to warm up the oil. Warm oil flows more freely and carries away more internal deposits than cold, thick oil.
Once the engine is warm, turn it off and lift the front of the car using your jack. Position your jack stands under the reinforced frame rails and lower the car onto them slowly. Never work under a car supported only by a hydraulic jack, as these can fail without warning.
Open the hood and remove the oil fill cap to allow air to enter the system as the oil drains. This prevents a vacuum effect, which can cause the oil to glug and splash out of the drain pan. Now you are ready to head underneath the vehicle with your tools and drain pan.
Removing the Underbody Splash Shield
Many 2018 Ford Fusions, especially those with EcoBoost engines, feature a plastic aerodynamic shield under the engine. You will need to remove several T30 Torx screws or 7mm bolts to drop this shield and access the oil pan. Keep these screws in a small tray so they do not get lost in the driveway.
Draining the Old Engine Oil
Locate the oil drain plug on the rear of the oil pan and position your pan directly underneath it. Use your wrench to loosen the plug counter-clockwise until you can turn it by hand. Apply inward pressure on the plug as you unscrew the last few threads to prevent oil from leaking prematurely.
Quickly pull the plug away and let the oil flow into the drain pan for several minutes. While the oil is draining, inspect the drain plug gasket for any cracks or flattening. If the gasket looks worn, replace it with a new one to ensure a leak-free seal.
Replacing the Oil Filter and Sealing the System
While the last of the oil drips out, locate the oil filter, which is usually found on the front or side of the engine block. Position your drain pan under the filter, as it will hold a significant amount of residual oil. Use your filter wrench to loosen the canister until oil begins to seep out.
Wait for the flow to slow down before unscrewing the filter completely. Once removed, check the mounting surface on the engine to ensure the old rubber gasket did not stick to it. If the old gasket remains, the new filter will not seal properly, leading to a massive leak.
Take your new filter and apply a thin film of clean engine oil to the new rubber seal. This “pre-lubing” helps the gasket slide into place and makes it easier to remove during your next 2018 ford fusion oil change. Thread the new filter on by hand and tighten it until it is “snug plus a quarter turn.”
Reinstalling the Drain Plug
Wipe the area around the drain hole with a clean rag to remove any grit or old oil. Reinstall the drain plug by hand first to avoid cross-threading the delicate aluminum threads of the oil pan. Once hand-tight, use your wrench to give it a firm snugging.
Avoid over-tightening the plug, as this can strip the threads or crack the pan. Most technicians recommend a torque setting of approximately 20 to 25 foot-pounds. Now that the bottom end is sealed, you can reinstall the splash shield and lower the vehicle.
Refilling the Engine and Checking for Leaks
With the car back on level ground, place a funnel into the oil fill neck on top of the engine. Slowly pour in the required volume of oil based on your specific engine’s capacity. It is often best to add half a quart less than the maximum capacity initially to avoid overfilling.
Replace the fill cap and start the engine, letting it idle for about 30 seconds. This allows the new oil to circulate through the oil galleys and fill the new filter. While the engine is running, look under the car to ensure there are no drips from the plug or filter.
Turn the engine off and wait three to five minutes for the oil to settle back into the pan. Pull the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, and pull it out again to check the level. The oil should be between the two holes or hash marks on the stick; add more if necessary.
Environmental Responsibility
Never pour used motor oil down a storm drain or into the trash, as it is a major environmental hazard. Pour your old oil into the empty containers from your new oil using a funnel. Most local auto parts stores or recycling centers will accept used oil for free.
Resetting the Oil Life Monitoring System
The 2018 Ford Fusion features an Intelligent Oil-Life Monitor that needs to be reset after every service. If you skip this step, the car will continue to alert you that an oil change is required. The process is handled entirely through the steering wheel buttons and the dashboard display.
Turn the ignition to the “On” position without starting the engine. Use the directional pad on the left side of your steering wheel to navigate to the “Settings” menu. From there, select “Vehicle,” and then look for the “Oil Life” sub-menu.
Press and hold the “OK” button until the display indicates that the oil life has been reset to 100%. You should see a confirmation message on the screen once the process is complete. Turn the ignition off, and your vehicle’s computer is now synced with your fresh maintenance.
Why the Reset is Important
The monitoring system calculates oil degradation based on driving habits, idle time, and temperature. By resetting it, you ensure the car accurately tracks when the next service is due. This is especially important for EcoBoost engines, which are sensitive to oil quality due to their turbochargers.
Common Challenges During a 2018 ford fusion oil change
One of the most common issues DIYers face is a stuck oil filter that refuses to budge. If your filter wrench slips, you can try using a “spider” style wrench or a strap wrench for better grip. In extreme cases, some mechanics carefully use a large pair of channel locks to gain leverage.
Another challenge is the mess created when oil hits the frame or subframe during draining. You can use a piece of cardboard or a flexible funnel to redirect the oil flow into your pan. Keeping the area clean makes it much easier to spot actual leaks later on.
If you notice metal shavings in your old oil, this could be a sign of internal engine wear. While a tiny amount of “glitter” is normal in high-mileage engines, large flakes are a cause for concern. If you see significant debris, it may be time to consult a professional technician for a diagnostic check.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2018 ford fusion oil change
How often should I change the oil in my 2018 Ford Fusion?
Ford generally recommends an interval of 7,500 to 10,000 miles under normal driving conditions. However, if you frequently drive in extreme heat, tow heavy loads, or engage in lots of stop-and-go traffic, you should aim for every 5,000 miles. Always follow the prompts from your Intelligent Oil-Life Monitor for the best results.
Can I use conventional oil instead of synthetic?
While you can technically use conventional oil, it is not recommended for modern Ford engines. The 2018 Fusion is designed to run on synthetic blend or full synthetic oil to meet manufacturer specifications. Synthetic oil provides superior protection against heat and reduces the buildup of engine sludge over time.
What happens if I overfill the oil?
Overfilling your engine can lead to “foaming,” where the crankshaft whips air into the oil. This aerated oil cannot lubricate the engine effectively and can lead to increased pressure on seals and gaskets. If you are significantly over the “Max” line, you should drain the excess oil immediately.
Do I need to change the filter every time?
Yes, you should always replace the oil filter during every 2018 ford fusion oil change. The filter captures contaminants and metal particles that can cause premature engine wear. A clogged filter can go into “bypass mode,” allowing unfiltered oil to circulate through your engine, which defeats the purpose of the oil change.
Completing your own maintenance is a fantastic way to ensure your Ford Fusion stays on the road for years to come. By following these steps and paying attention to the details, you’ve provided your engine with the fresh lubrication it needs to thrive. Stay safe, keep your tools clean, and enjoy the satisfaction of a job well done!
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